Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a magnificent Sikh temple located in the state of Haryana, India. This holy shrine is in the heart of the city of Faridabad, located in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India. It is one of the most popular and revered Gurudwaras in India and attracts thousands of devotees worldwide.
The Gurudwara was built in memory of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, who stayed there during his travels in the 17th century. The temple is a beautiful example of Sikh architecture, with its white marble facade, golden domes, and intricate carvings. The main prayer hall, or Darbar Sahib, is a spacious and serene room where devotees come to offer their prayers and seek blessings.
The Gurudwara also has a large sarovar, or holy pond, which is believed to have healing powers. Devotees take a dip in the Sarovar as a way of purifying themselves and seeking blessings. The temple complex also houses a langar hall, where free meals are served to all visitors, irrespective of their caste, religion, or economic status. This tradition of serving free meals to all visitors, known as langar, is a cornerstone of Sikhism and is practised in all Gurudwaras.One of the unique features of the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is the presence of a sacred tree known as the 'Jharna Sahib'. It is believed that Guru Tegh Bahadur had meditated under this tree during his stay in Faridabad. The tree is considered a symbol of spiritual strength and is revered by devotees.
The Gurudwara also has a rich history of social and political activism. During the Indian Independence movement, the temple was crucial in the struggle against British colonial rule. It was also a centre of activity during the Sikh separatist movement in the 1980s and 1990s.
The Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a vibrant centre of Sikh worship, community service, and social activism. It is a symbol of the rich heritage and values of Sikhism and a testament to the enduring legacy of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Visitors to the temple can expect to experience a sense of peace and tranquillity and a warm welcome from the friendly and hospitable Sikh community.
Things to do in gurudwara bangla sahib in Haryana:
Seek blessings:
The main purpose of visiting Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is to seek blessings from Guru Tegh Bahadur. Visitors can offer their prayers, listen to the kirtan (devotional music), and participate in the areas (collective prayer).
Take a dip in the Sarovar:
The holy pond inside the Gurudwara is believed to have healing powers. Visitors can dip in the Sarovar and seek blessings for themselves and their loved ones.
Visit the langar hall:
The Gurudwara serves free meals to all visitors as a part of the Sikh tradition of langar. Visitors can volunteer to help in the kitchen or enjoy a meal with the community.
Explore the surroundings:
The Gurudwara is located in the heart of Faridabad, and visitors can explore places to visit in Haryana the surrounding area. Many shops sell Sikh artefacts, souvenirs, and traditional clothes.
Attend the daily prayers:
The Gurudwara conducts daily prayers, and visitors can attend these prayers to witness the holy zeal of the Sikh community.
Learn about the history and culture:
The Gurudwara has a rich history and culture. Visitors can learn about the Gurudwara's history and its role in the Indian independence movement and the Sikh separatist movement.
Volunteer for community service:
The Gurudwara is known for its community service activities, such as providing free medical camps, distributing food to the needy, and organizing blood donation camps. Visitors can volunteer for these activities and contribute to the community's welfare.
It is important to remember that visitors should dress modestly and cover their heads before entering the Gurudwara. Footwear should be removed before entering the prayer hall or any other sacred area. Visitors should also respect the customs and traditions of the Sikh community and maintain decorum inside the temple premises.
Best time to visit gurudwara bangla sahib in Haryana:
Weather:
The weather in Haryana can be extreme, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is during winter (October to March) when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.
Festivals:
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib celebrates many festivals throughout the year, including Guru Nanak Jayanti, Baisakhi, and Diwali. Visiting during these festivals can be a great way to experience the vibrant Sikh culture and traditions.
Crowd:
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib attracts many visitors throughout the year, especially on weekends and holidays. If you prefer a less crowded experience, it is best to visit during weekdays.
Purpose of visit:
If you are visiting the Gurudwara for spiritual purposes, it is best to visit during the early morning or late evening when the atmosphere is peaceful and serene. If you are interested in community service activities, it is best to visit during the day, when most activities occur.
Personal preferences:
The best time to visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib depends on your preferences and schedule. Planning and checking the weather forecast and the Gurudwara's schedule is important before visiting.